hen winter temperatures plunge, dogs face real risks—from hypothermia and frostbite to toxic ice melt, antifreeze exposure, cracked paw pads, and anxiety caused by cold stress.
This guide shares veterinarian-backed, winter safety tips to help dog parents protect their pets during snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and icy conditions.
1. How Cold Is Too Cold for Dogs?
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) warns that dogs are just as vulnerable as humans to hypothermia and frostbite, especially when exposed to wind, moisture, or extreme cold. Small breeds, senior dogs, puppies, short-haired dogs, and dogs with arthritis or heart disease are at higher risk.
“Frostbite is most common on the tips of the ears, tail, paws, and scrotum,” — AVMA Cold Weather Pet Safety Guide
Signs your dog is too cold:
- Shivering or trembling
- Anxiety or whining
- Lifting paws
- Slowing down or trying to turn back
- Weakness or confusion
If you notice these symptoms, bring your dog inside immediately and contact your veterinarian.
2. Protect Your Dog’s Paws from Ice & Salt
Snow, ice, and de-icing salts are some of the biggest winter hazards for dogs. Salt, ice balls, and freezing surfaces can burn or crack paw pads and cause painful irritation.
Booties help protect paws from salt, ice balls, and cold surfaces, but if your dog is like Riva, and won’t tolerate booties, the ASPCA recommends applying a paw balm or petroleum jelly before going outside to create a protective barrier.
We make sure that after every walk we do the following with Riva:
- Wipe paws and legs with a warm cloth
- Dry thoroughly (especially between toes)
- Check for redness, cracks, or limping
3. Avoid Toxic Ice Melt & Chemicals
De-icing products can cling to fur and paws, and when dogs lick them off, they may experience stomach upset or poisoning.
The ASPCA advises using pet-safe ice melt whenever possible. Wiping the paws after walks removes any other salt or ice melt too.
4. Antifreeze Is Deadly (Even in Small Amounts)
Ethylene glycol (antifreeze) is extremely toxic to dogs - even tiny amounts can cause kidney failure and death.
Prevention tips:
- Clean spills immediately
- Check for car leaks
- Store chemicals securely
- If exposure is suspected, go to the emergency vet immediately
5. Keep Your Dog Warm & Dry Indoors Too
Cold stress doesn’t end at the door. Wet fur loses insulation fast, and dogs who feel chilled may become anxious, restless, or unsettled.
This is where a calming, cozy recovery space matters.
After winter walks, let your dog cozy up in our Premium Calming Waterproof blanket. It’s machine washable, so if any muddy slush follows you into the house, it’s a snap to clean.
The warmth and soft texture help dogs regulate body temperature, relax muscles, and feel secure, especially after exposure to cold or ice.
Stay warm and remember – Spring is only 44 days away!